Endodontics
When is a root canal needed?
A root canal is performed when the soft inner part of a tooth, known as the pulp, is injured or becomes inflamed or infected.
The crown of the tooth — the part you can see above your gums — can remain intact even if the pulp is dead. Removing injured or infected pulp is the best way to preserve the structure of the tooth.
Common causes of damage to the pulp include:
deep decay due to an untreated cavity
multiple dental procedures on the same tooth
a chip or crack in the tooth
an injury to the tooth (you might injure a tooth if you get hit in the mouth; the pulp can still be damaged even if the injury doesn’t crack the tooth)
The most common symptoms of damaged pulp include pain in your tooth, and swelling and a sensation of heat in your gums. Your dentist will examine the painful tooth and take X-rays to confirm the diagnosis.
Endodontics is the branch of dentistry concerning dental pulp and tissues surrounding the roots of a tooth. Endodontic treatment, or root canal treatment, treats the soft pulp tissue inside the tooth.
What happens after a root canal?
A root canal is considered a restorative procedure. Most people who undergo the procedure are able to enjoy the positive results for the rest of their lives. Still, how long results last depends on the way you take care of your teeth.
Just as the rest of your teeth depend on good oral hygiene habits, your restored tooth requires regular brushing and flossing as well.